During cataract surgery, how is the nucleus of the lens suctioned?

The nucleus of the lens during cataract surgery is suctioned through an opening in the tip of the ultrasonic hand-piece known as phacoemulsification. This advanced technique involves a high-frequency ultrasonic beam that emulsifies the cataractous lens into smaller pieces, making it easier to remove. Once the lens material is broken down into smaller fragments, the same ultrasonic hand-piece creates a flow that suctions the emulsified material out of the eye. This method allows for precise removal of the lens nucleus while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues, contributing significantly to improved visual outcomes and faster recovery for patients.

Other methods listed, such as using traditional forceps or manual extraction, are not typically employed during modern cataract surgery, as they can be less efficient and more invasive than the phacoemulsification technique. While a suction cannula may be used in various contexts, it does not directly describe the mechanism of phacoemulsification utilized for suctioning the lens nucleus in cataract procedures.